January 12, 2026 6:00-7:00pm
Week 1: The Why: Biology of Meltdown Behavior
Move past the frustration to answer the most important question: Is this a tantrum, or is this sensory overwhelm?
What we will cover:
Tantrum vs. Meltdown: Learn the crucial difference between goal-oriented behavior and a biological "fight or flight" response.
The Brain in Overdrive: Why you can’t reason with a screaming child and why their "logic brain" has gone offline.
The "Glass of Water" Analogy: How hidden sensory triggers fill your child’s cup until it overflows at home.
Plus: A candid Q&A session to help you cope with meltdowns in your home.
Suggested payment: $30.00/family
If finances are a concern, please feel welcome to use the following code for 10% off: discount2026
Does your child go from 0 to 100 in seconds? In Week 1 of our series, we are shifting the lens from "My child is giving me a hard time" to "My child is having a hard time." We are going beneath the surface to understand the science of a meltdown. We will move past the frustration to answer the most important question: Is this a tantrum, or is this sensory overwhelm?
Meet your instructor
Diana Fitts, OTR/L (she/her) is a registered and licensed occupational therapist specializing in sensory processing, social-emotional learning, and play-based interventions. She is also a licensed high school science teacher passionate about inspiring teens to find awe in the world around them and become lifelong science enthusiasts. Diana holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University and a Master’s degree in Teaching Secondary Science from Western Governors University. She adopts a holistic approach in both her teaching and therapy, prioritizing the needs of the whole child. Outside of her professional life, Diana enjoys running, creating art, and exploring Oregon with her family.
View more classes: www.thriveoutside.net